Leaders in Technology - Meet Ashish Kumar Sharma

What does connection mean to you?

Both in my professional endeavours and personal life, the idea of connection holds immense importance. On a personal level, connections bring richness to my life by offering emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Professionally, I see connection as the foundation for effective teamwork, clear communication, and overall success. It's about nurturing strong relationships with colleagues and partners, grounded in trust, respect, and shared objectives.

I feel fortunate to be part of a company that values building connections amongst its employees.

How do meaningful connections influence your day-to-day?

The connections I have, both professionally and personally, evoke a multitude of emotions that enrich my life. These relationships make me feel supported, understood, and valued. They provide a sense of belonging and comfort, knowing that there are people who care about me and are there for me in both good times and challenging moments. These connections bring joy, happiness, and fulfillment, adding depth and meaning to my experiences.

What has been your greatest lesson while working on the Technology team at lululemon?

The 'people-first' approach has truly been the most profound lesson I've learned while working on the lululemon technology team. Prioritizing the overall wellbeing, growth, and inclusivity of my colleagues has not only transformed the way we work together but has also enriched my own experience within the team. In essence, the ‘people-first' approach has not only shaped my interactions within the team but has also influenced the way I approach teamwork and leadership. I believe that placing people at the forefront of our endeavours is key to building a successful and fulfilling team dynamic.

What types of roles does your team hire for?

In March, I became part of The Global Supply Chain Technology team, providing leading-edge technology solutions for our supply chain business capabilities, including raw material innovation, development, sourcing, logistics, distribution, and analytics. In this capacity, I lead the APAC Supply Chain Technology team, working closely with business and product management partners, and coordinating with global delivery teams. We periodically hire for positions such as Program Manager, Project Manager, and System Analysts to support our upstream supply chain and Global Fulfillment Programs.

Could you tell us about your career journey and how you ended up in Technology?

When computers first arrived in my school, the lab felt almost sacred. We had to remove our shoes before entering as if we were stepping into a temple of knowledge. I remember standing at the doorway, wondering: What could be so powerful that it demanded such respect? That moment sparked a lifelong curiosity. I was fascinated that a single machine could draw, calculate with ease, let us type and print, and best of all, play games. It felt like magic. I wasn’t just using a computer, I was exploring a new world.

 At home, I found myself digging deeper, installing games, fixing errors, and experimenting with basic functions. Without knowing it, I was developing the instincts of a problem solver. I wasn’t following a curriculum, I was following my curiosity.

Back then, being the kid who could ‘make the computer work’ came with pride. And over time, that pride turned into purpose. With encouragement from family, inspiration from tech shows and magazines, and the growing belief that technology could open global doors, I chose to turn that curiosity into a career.

My career journey began with a startup back in 2007 in India. Those early days were full of excitement and learning, setting the stage for everything that followed. In 2012, a significant moment came when I landed my first job at a multinational company. It was a turning point as it introduced me to working with people from diverse backgrounds, expanding my horizons, and adding depth to my professional development.

Fast forward to 2022, a pivotal year in my career, when I joined the lululemon Technology team. From barefoot steps into that school lab to now leading our APAC supply chain technology team, the journey has been long, but the spark is still the same. It began with wonder. It continues with purpose.

Can you share a fun fact about yourself?

Just like many others, I love traveling. However, here's the twist—I always need to have a travel plan booked at any given moment, something to look forward to. It's the anticipation of the next adventure that truly excites me!

Also, I'm always fascinated by the ever-evolving world of technology. Whenever a new innovative tech gadget hits the market, I can't resist trying it out. Whether it's AR glasses, VR headsets, gaming consoles, or folding phones, count me in for an adventure into the latest tech trends!

Interested in joining lululemon's Technology team? We're always hiring. Apply today. https://careers.lululemon.com/en_US/careers/SearchCareer/?6744=436&6744_format=3019&1873=%5B52650%5D&1873_format=2755&listFilterMode=1&jobRecordsPerPage=10&